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2.8 76 Reviews

Penn Foster Complaints Summary

34 Resolved
42 Unresolved
Our verdict: Dealing with Penn Foster, which has an average resolution rate, requires some diligence. Research their service in depth and read a variety of customer reviews for a balanced view. Approach any customer service interactions with detailed and well-prepared queries to facilitate a better resolution process.
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7:21 am EST
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Penn Foster refuse to return

I signed up for the Mechanical Engineering Associates degree. The first thing Penn Foster did was to take 1240.00 from my Debit account. I paid them and was filling out the application when I noticed that I had to prove I graduated from High School. My High School closed in 1980 and the building was sold to the University of Pennsylvania, so I did not know how to retrieve my High School transcript. The next step taken was to question this requirement. I have two college Degrees. It should have been related to me prior to taking out my money. Any way I canceled out of the program. Penn Foster said it would be 2 week before the money would be returned. That would make it 12/28/2009.

I asked for a letter saying how much would be returned. It took a week to get the letter and many calls requesting the letter. It is now 12/31/2009 and still the money has not been returned to my account.

The letter they sent has a date of 12/18/2009 which is two days before I enrolled but the post office stamp is 12/24/2009.

This float means they have the use of my money but no "quo pro quid".

I am not receiving anything of value from Penn Foster.

If your thinking of enrolling in Penn Foster ask for a contract before you

pay anything. Their address is in Scranton, their home office is in Phonex, Arizona. Do not send or offer money until everything seen in Black and white including the course outline and one or more of the texts.

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Thickberries
, US
Apr 06, 2010 10:48 am EDT

I, m enrolled in the Business Management Certificate Program. So far, I, ve had no problem with the school. The txt was in good condition. You have alot of work to do. Its not hard but it cant be done with out effort. As far as your credits transfering, any time you go to any school you should see who accepts the credits every school has different policys! No matter how its accredited!

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11:08 am EST
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Penn Foster scam

I am not really happy with Penn Foster HVAC program. I made three question and neither weren answered right.Like I told them that I saw a heat pump with only one metering device and they told me to look better that there should be another one some where.The I found out that there are two way flow txv. Also they do not offer any type of training video.So basically you paying around $ 700.00 for a book and a $12.00 multimeter that they send you at the end of the course and the $50.00 for the EPA test.

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4:41 pm EST
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Penn Foster false fees

I contacted this online college to inquire about their online Vet Tech program. They sent me brochure and a link to do some entrance exams. I completed the exams and read the brochure but in the end decided I no longer wanted to go with them. A few months went by and all of a sudden I get a letter stating that I owe them $1900. For what? They have not provided a service so why do I owe them $1900. When I called them up they were very rude and wanted $600 for a cancellation. Again I ask for what? Then I applied to a credible school that I wanted to go to and was turned down because they said I was in debted to another college. So now not only do they think I owe them a ridiculous amount of money they are ruining my life in other ways as well. I will be contacting my lawyer and the BBB as well as tv and radio news. I wonder if anyone else has had this problem?

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Martina Dewey
, US
Jul 04, 2016 6:47 am EDT

I authorized Penn Foster to take a 10.00 payment from my debit card, instead they took out a total of 50. They don't seem to care that they've messed up. I need an email address for someone in this company so that I have a paper trail of the complaint. It doesn't seem to be easy to find a way to contact them. Their customer service is lousy. I was previously a student, so I'm sad to see things go so downhill .

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TraceMePink
Punxsutawney, US
Jan 03, 2012 7:05 pm EST

I had the same problem with their wedding planning course. needless to say since i dont have the money for a laywer, i still owe them money and they took me to collection. i will not deal with them again!

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shannon313
, US
Dec 03, 2009 8:09 pm EST

Ive been also thinking of taking the online vet tech program through Penn Foster but after reading these complaints I am having second thoughts. Any other suggestions on where to take an online Vet Tech program?

Thank you

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cat eyes
Chattanooga, US
Dec 03, 2009 4:53 pm EST

I agree with you and yes ive been done similar to that . i think its unfair when they threaten you with money that you dont owe . I also don't appreciate them telling me, they can stop me from getting any loans to go to another college over this, yes i've been took also

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EricWilly
, US
Nov 10, 2009 11:27 pm EST

Did you sign anything? Digitally or otherwise?

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10:08 am EDT
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Penn Foster liability and cancellation

I recently signed up to take the medical assistant course, gave my 19.00 deposit and was under the impression that if I cancelled before the 31st when the 1st payment was due I would NOT owe the school any money. The school in less then a month, basically within a week apart sent me about 10 materials, a bunch of booklets not real text books. I kept thinking I'm not going to finish these exams or materials so quickly. So, I wrote the school to cancel. Now, the school claims since I "received" ten shipments, and did ten exams I owe them 333.00 dollars for liability because I owe them 25% of what I received!? This isn't fair, the only reason I signed up was because I applied for a scholarship but will not get a response till December, and can't afford it because I'm not working right now? I went to print out the dates when the lessons were sent to me, and the school cancelled my online acct. How convenient for them huh? This is not fair, and I'm sorry but I will not Pay them. And will continue to fight this nonsense.

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3:12 pm EDT
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Penn Foster don't study there

If you are thinking to take classes online make sure you don't study through penn foster; it is not a recognized school.Once you finish you can not transfer the credits to a four years college. Sometimes they take a month to send you a shipment, and when they finally send it you find out is incomplete; so you have to wait for another week to start a new class.When you make a call you have to wait eternity, and if you leave a message they don't return your call. Don't waist your money, and time, get a college that respect you, and value your time and effort. Penn Foster is not a reliable institution.

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SvenStadt
Dysart, US
Nov 20, 2010 7:56 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I attended PF and loved it. Don't listen to these bums who get on here and say, "Oh they're rude over the phone!" I took one semester with them and transferred nine (9) credits of Graphic Design semester work.

They DO keep track of your work, so YES there is someone on the other end who gets paid for their time. The reason it feels like a "waste of time" to most people is because there's no one giving you criticism in person if you mess up, but the school is designed for self-motivated students, so problem solved!

I'm gonna return to finish my Bachelor's Degree work with them. YOU CAN'T OFFER THEM without accreditation! Check the AZ Dept. of Education and look under Private Postsecondary Institutions. That's for offering the degree itself. The method of delivery has to do with the DETC, which they're also accredited with.

If they lost either of these two accreditations, they'd have to stop offering degrees! Note also that PF was named one of the Best Places to Work in PA this year!

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collegeboy71
Pearland, US
Dec 23, 2009 3:50 pm EST

I'm working toward my associates in mechanical engineering and have always got immediate response from my instructors. They have been very helpful in helping understand how to work out those equations that look so intimidating at first. I haven't tried to transfer my credits to a four year college yet but I'm sure there are schools online that will accept Penn Foster credits. Maybe Penn will step up in the future and offer a bachelors degree for Mechanical engineering.

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naya222
Bear, US
Nov 06, 2009 12:35 pm EST

Well most institutions look down upon other online institutions, which in my opinion is very unfortunate because there are a lot of well rounded online schools that do a great job. It's mainly the other colleges issue for not accepting a DETC accredited transfer credits b/c to them online schools are not viewed on the same level as regionally accredited schools, which is so not true. I attended an online college and was able to transfer my credits and work towards my bachelor degree. You have to find the right school that will accept those credits. MY friend who attended Penn Foster was able to transfer and is now in a Masters program. It's important to know the college that you want to attend transfer policy and see if they acknowledge DETC credits. Good luck to you, and don't feel discourage and I'm sorry you had a rough experience with them, my friend gives them high review. I guess with any institution there are good and bad reviews but at least you are keeping it real.

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4:19 pm EDT
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This review was chosen algorithmically as the most valued customer feedback.

Penn Foster - won't let me cancel courses

Ok this is just plain wrong, when I joined penn foster they told me that if I was unsatisfied or for any reason needed to quit that I would be able to cancel my hs courses... Well I ran into some personal trouble and can't afford them so I told them, still nothing has happened, I sent in an email saying that I wanted to cancel my courses, still nothing...

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3:17 pm EDT
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Penn Foster study at own risk

If anyone hates the hassle of email to & fro with no solutions PLEASE avoid this at all costs.

Not only does the student service staff unhelpful & rude, and makes empty claims regards to the shipment of materials too.

And not only U would never get any straight answers either cos you issue would be pass around like a merry go round & ends up all frustrated.

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Penn Foster
Scranton, US
Sep 11, 2012 1:21 pm EDT

Hello,

I apologize for any inconveniences, but I believe this can be sorted out. Can you e-mail me at adam.mcilwee@pennfoster.edu with your student number so I can see what the discrepancy is?

Thank you, and once again, I apologize for any issues that have come up.

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9:22 am EDT
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Penn Foster not your typical school

I had to say that its getting more & more frustrating staying on doing course with the school.

Firstly you would had your semester books back ordered. Just curious don't they stock up or they merely ordered one at a time.

Secondly even though you would be given elective subjects to choose from but in real, the school choose it for you without even consulting or get any answers from you, they go ahead & prepare the materials for shipment.

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Penn Foster
Scranton, US
Sep 11, 2012 1:47 pm EDT

Hello,

I apologize for any inconveniences, but I believe this can be sorted out. Can you e-mail me at adam.mcilwee@pennfoster.edu with your student number so we can straighten this out?

Thank you, and once again, I apologize for any issues that have come up.

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3:15 pm EDT
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Penn Foster unhelpful staff

I just had to say overall one word on penn foster :disappointment

Not only the staff that answers email are unhelpful but rude most the times I need contact them regarding my materials.

And worse of all the school seems to like pass around the students' issues to different customer service office so you likely find that your email would be answered by numerous different person & its hard to track down whoever you been corresponding to.

If given a choice I would not choose the school but then due to the fact I am an international student, the number of online schools are limited choices.

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Penn Foster
Scranton, US
Sep 11, 2012 1:06 pm EDT

Hello,

I apologize for any inconvenience you might have had, and I believe this can be sorted out. Can you e-mail me at adam.mcilwee@pennfoster.edu with your Student ID so we can get any issues straightened out?

Thank you, and once I again, I do apologize.

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honeyflower
Dalton, US
Nov 20, 2010 9:55 am EST

there are other ways you can get an education, Ive been there where you are and I know they are rude. what about when they actually just pass the test around, not even to Teachers just to whomever. calll your local community college they will help you more than these sharks will. and do not let them intimidate you. I wish the place were shut down .

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12:09 pm EDT
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Penn Foster fees

I took a Private Investigation class through Penn Foster in 2007, and put $150 down towards it and each mth I paid $39. After a couple financial arised I couldn't afford the program.

I called them and wanted to work something out and they refused so I had to cancel. They worked out where if I paid the cancelation fee that would be it. Later that year I checked my credit report and I was informed that they charged me the cancelation fee any way. I called them to see what was going on and they were so rude. I called the collection agency and they were rude also. They told me to call the school.

It was just un real how I was back and forth. I called and they stated that if I paid half then that would cover the cancelation charges. I did that and I asked for documentation about my payment. The school sent me a letter in 2007 explaining my pay off but fail to explain it would still be on my credit.

A couple weeks ago I tried to get a loan and I was denied because of the $500 they reported to another collection agency saying that I owe them. This school is just plan ridiculous!

I called the school again and spoke with collections and now they are saying I didn't owe anything. They took care of what was reporting on credit and sopose to be mailing me letter. I will see because I will not stop until this situation is resolved.

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DawnO72
Sheridan, US
Jun 05, 2013 10:18 pm EDT

I agree, I too completed the Private Investigator Program at Penn Foster, completed the program, all I had to do was pay if off. It was around $138.00 that I owed. I too feel on some financial hard times and was unable to continue paying. My payment was $50.00 a month. I called them and explained the issue, I offerd to pay them the $39.00 that I had available, needless to say I was told that I had to pay the $50.00 to keep it from going to collections. So, they refused my payment, and sent it to collections, but not befoer charging me over $21.00 a day for late fees, a day!. They locked my account and told me I had to deal with the collection company. My bill ended up being almost $300 for a $138 bill. The collection company sent me a letter statting they were offering me a settlement offer at a reduced rate to clear the bill up. It was tax season, I had the funds, so I payed it. Months went by, and still no certificate that I earned by completing the course. I call PF they tell me the account is not paid off. I call the collection company only to find out that by, accepting the settlement offer I will not receive my certificate. Posted a not so nice post on PF facebook, a rep from the school messaged me back, asking for my account information so she could look into it and possibly get it taken care of. Pretty much the same comment from above from PF rep stating they will look into it and get it figuerd out. That was at the beginning of the year. DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT ENROLL IN ANY CLASSES WITH PENN FOSTER, THEY ARE THEIFS, AND LIARS!

Penn Foster
Penn Foster
Scranton, US
Sep 11, 2012 1:47 pm EDT

Hello,

I apologize for any inconveniences, but I believe this can be sorted out. Can you e-mail me at adam.mcilwee@pennfoster.edu with your student number so we can straighten this out?

Thank you, and once again, I apologize for any issues that have come up.

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4:57 am EDT
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Penn Foster awful company

I decided to try the Web Design degree through Penn Foster, and put $150 down towards it and made one payment of $50 after that. I took the online reading and math assessment, which was essentially an elementary level quiz that a fourth grader could have easily passed.

After that, I had some personal issues arise and I couldn't afford the commitment of their degree program. I tried to find out if it was possible for me to switch to a certificate program, which would have been shorter and cheaper in the long run. They said I couldn't, so I decided to cancel. I was then informed I would have to pay over $200 just to cancel the courses!

I thought this was ridiculous, considering the 'books' they sent me, weren't even books! They were paper pamphlets stapled together! And I even offered to send them back! And I hadn't done ANYTHING but take an online quiz for basic math skills! After speaking to SEVERAL people with Penn Foster regarding this, I was told I could cancel my courses and would owe no further money.

Let's also keep in mind, Penn Foster allegedly requires proof of a high school diploma or GED, something I NEVER supplied to them...

Now, it's been almost a year and a half since then, and randomly, out of the blue, I get a collections notice from them for over $200! Are you kidding me?! This is ridiculous!

I sent them the following email.

'I called and CANCELED my courses for Webdesign with your school prior to December of 2007. I did NOTHING with the courses except take the online reading and math assessments. That was it. That was all of it. I didn't do anything further. I had wanted to switch to a certificate program but was informed I couldn't so I decided to just cancel the courses and after speaking to a FEW people, they told me I could, as I hadn't done anything with the courses aside from the reading and math assessment and had already paid $150-200 culmitive.

Now, almost a year and a half later, I received a collections notice for over $200! I CANCELED the courses and was told I owed nothing further! This is ridiculous!

Not to mention, your site said it required proof of high school diploma (which I never supplied!) and yet you're still trying to charge me?! I canceled the course! All i did was take an incredibly elementary math and reading assessment!

I would like this resolved as soon as possible and I am very appalled that your 'school' would do such a thing! '

So, we will see what happens. I am awaiting their response, and will be calling both them and the collection agency first thing in the morning.

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PennFoster
Scranton, US
Oct 04, 2012 10:40 pm EDT

I agree this school is not a good school. They cancel your courses for no reason and then force you to pay the rest of the money. I was doing very well in the diplomaa course I was taking with them. They are rip offs. Also when I tried to complain they told me I am not allowed to complain. By law you are wronged and you feel that you have been scammed by a so called reputable company than you have the right to file complains that is your right as a law abiding consumer. They can't take away your right to complain. IF they done something wrong they need to own up to it and resolve the issue and fair about it and not try to threaten other people that do complain. It is their right by consumer protection act. They can't stop anyone from complaining. Anyone that is considering this school please reconsider and do your research well. There are other schools out there such as Ashworth College and they have high school and career school and masters degree which Penn Foster does not offer. Also Ashworth does not charge you extra if you need extra time to complete your course. Penn Foster will charge you $75.00 and will only give you six months extra and keep charging you for every six months if you need extra time. But Ashworth College and their high school program is different they treat students rights and don't cancel classes in the middle and force you out for no reason. Ashworth is also accredited by the US Dept. Of Education and the online education accreditation and is acceptable to transfer in most colleges and universities. Penn Foster is very limited in their accreditation. So Be Very Carefull When Choosing Penn Foster! THEY HAVE MANY BAD REVIEWS OF SCAM!

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PatriciaN
Miami Beach, US
Aug 07, 2009 1:59 pm EDT

I am very dissapointed also PennFoster is not good school.
people so rude in the offices, books they are no really books, only copies of paper when you want to reach teachers no teachers no communication at night when you want to summited exams the techical support in Foster no good.
Only they are attention thoses people is charge a lot of money
Please don't make mistake like me don't go to the school .

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3:19 pm EDT
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Penn Foster terrible school

I am a current student of Penn Foster. My class is extremely disorganized. They change the class schedule over and over and no notice is given. I have to adjust my real job schedule to accommodate. The teacher tells people over and over she has too many students and is tired of all the emails. They are rude to people and make you feel stupid for "bothering" them.

They have a participation requirement that is completely unclear. They make you spend time reading about teenage girls face book pages in order to make a participation grade.

The school is a Joke and judging by the quality of the other student this degree would carry no weight.

To bad they don't allow you to cancel as I will be out $1000 for almost no education. Their techniques were outdated and the books were flimsy booklets with no meat to them.

Steer clear folks, if your unhappy your screwed they charge a hefty cancellation fee.

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Studentatschool
Wailuku, US
Oct 30, 2009 1:59 am EDT

I have done all the requirements and I still have not received a P for passing in class participation. And in the forum, she said the forums don't count toward anything? This is all very confusing, I would just like to do my school work and can not get my next shipment. what do I do please help!

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doomette
, US
Jun 20, 2009 2:02 am EDT

I'm currently a student, at the tail end of the second semester. There is absolutely no requirement to look at some "teenaged girl's Facebook" to obtain your participation grade. I have no idea where you got that idea, but I'm wondering if a lot of your complaints stem from a lack of understanding of how the program actually works.

Of course the instructors are going to get snippy with people. They have to read a ridiculous amount of emails from people who refuse to read simple instructions themselves and expect everything to be explained to them in baby talk. This is a distance learning program, and requires a certain amount of independence and the ability to figure things out for yourself.

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Brandie
Stow, US
Mar 20, 2009 9:38 pm EDT

I don't want to be rude towards anyone's opinion, but my experience has been totally different. Any school online or brick and mortar, will have it's difficulties with instructors or the school itself. You just have to roll with the punches and concentrate on your studies. I have found with online courses it is easier, you just move on, with brick and mortar it causes a lot of confrontation, distracting you from your studies.
I am a Penn Foster student enrolled in the Veterinary Technitian Associates Degree Program. I have enjoyed all of my studies and classes. This course is accredited by the AVMA and afterwards I will be able to take the State Exam. I have enjoyed my studies and classes so far. I think some people think an online education will be a walk in the park. The classes I am taking are not easy and the tests and exams are not easy either. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication. The instructors I have delt with are professional and have never been rude. However, if you are not following the rules or guidelines of the school, they will let you know. If this happened at a brick and mortar school, you would have a face to face conversation not an email, explaining how to follow the rules. I am not a genious but I have been able to follow the rules just fine. If I do not understand, I can simply post it on the school boards and receive imput from the students or moderators to guide me. The school also offers mentors. As soon as I started I was offered a mentor, which I choose. She is also a student and has helped guide me through my studies and been a great friend. Right now I am on a team for my semester study hall and leading another study hall for other students. I am still in my first semester but I take things seriously and find time to dedicate to help others while helping myself retain the information. If you are an outgoing person and not just in it for the ease of going to school on line, Penn Foster is a great place to be. They are less expensive than any school I have checked out and the payment plan is more than reasonable. All books are included and are text books I have seen for sale at local college book stores. I also want to say that I am 29 years old and haven't been in school since high school and work a full time job as well. To all of those who think online school is an easy way to get a degree or certificate, I want to tell you to rethink that.

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8:16 am EDT

Penn Foster penn foster staffwith a mouth

Penn foster because of the staff they think they can talk any way they want to a person and im paying for there service well because of miss mouth over in the office she just thinks imgoing to give them money and put up with her mouth and think she can talk to me like that well news for u u will never get a penny from me from here on out if u ship me any more books u ill get them back I will no long want to be apart of ur high school program at all if u want ur payment u will talk to my attorney ur staff and ur programs r a joke and 4 ur staff and ur mouth that thinks they can talk 2 anyone they want like that and still have to make payments u r so wrong thank ur mouth for no longer getting my money and I hope 4 miss mouth in that office at penn foster that ur school has a good attorney because I do and u will not here the last of this matter dwayne allen taylor

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clinch
Fort Worth, US
Jul 19, 2010 9:10 pm EDT

I started the BS program in Business Management over a year ago. I have had to call quite a to try to get the correct information for tuition reimbursement from my company. The customer service folks were very helpful and did the best that they could considering my company's requirements for reimbursement are so strict. I also needed to take some time off for medical reasons. Again customer service was very nice and did everything that they could to accomidate me. The lady that I spoke to was very compassionate and helped me to the best of her ability. In my opinon the materials are up to date. I often relate some of my classes with my daily business. I was not impressed with the lack of responses from one of my instructors. I passed this info when I phone customer service as well as in the survey at the end of the course. As for the folks that have issues with the fees, consider this, you agreed to pay the tution. You agreed to the monthly payment, they don't even charge you interest as a traditional student loan would. Further, if you enrolled in a traditioal community college and failed to pay your tuition you would also be dismissed as well as turned over to collections. Why should Penn Foster have the right to follow the same process? As far as the typo's in the book I admit that should not happen, however consider that Penn Foster doesn't write or print the books, they purchase these books, agreed maybe they should find another publisher. But you can't blame them for publishing errors.

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Gogirl125
Knightdle, US
Jul 19, 2010 4:08 pm EDT

I am very leary now. I don't know what to think. I was searching for a school for graphic design. I saw an ad offering a free laptop if I enrolled at Penn Foster, so I sent for info. Nothing about a laptop in that. Guess it was a ploy to lure some in? I am just guessing. I want to take this course. I am very interested in this particular subject but do not know where to go from here now. I can't afford to be scammed or anything. I'm a single mom and lost my job of many years. Things are just way too tough as it is. I want to make sure I am getting what I pay for and will get an education that will better my career opportunities.

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cat eyes
Chattanooga, US
Dec 03, 2009 5:03 pm EST

yes I kknow how you feel, i've even gotten threats that i will never be able to attend a college because they will see to it that i dont if i dont give them all their money. I dropped because I was accused of plagerism when i wrote about my own life! haha if they searched it on the net to see if i had it out there the net is a big place, i am going to see what i can do legaly if anything because i dropped too, and now they think i owe them 600 dollars for nothing, i cant believe the books they use either and I dont know where they get them from but even with the shipmnt and courses they cant ad up to 600.00

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miller37
Mequon, US
Nov 16, 2009 5:49 pm EST

I have been a Penn Foster college since June 2009, and I think it's going very well for right now. I have not encountered anyone being mean to me over the phone at all! I have called them several times with questions and emailed questions to them. I have got nothing but nice things to say so far... I do agree with the study units for textbooks. Penn Foster really needs to do a better job and update the materials... Also It's an online college not to take sides here but, GROW UP PEOPLE! If you are serious about your studies, then do the work and stop complaining... I haven't had to get rude with any of the staff because Im getting something for my money... education! I don't agree with everything people are saying. So, okay they need a better staff I agree with that. Customer service is a MUST! But, over all, I haven't had any sserious problems.

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Jez
New Bedford, US
Sep 07, 2009 10:01 am EDT

I wish I would have read all of your complaints before enrolling in this school. I was very disappointed when I received their books (study units). The second one had 3 typos in it and one was the answer to a quiz! They can't take the time to proofread a book? You'd think they would pay someone to do this. I'm sure with all the money they are ripping off from us they have enough to do that. After reading all the problems people have withdrawing from the school I am not sure if I should just keep with it so I don't get reported to the credit agency or try anyway. So far I only called the school once to ask about withdrawing and the lady I spoke to was very nice. The next one probably won't be. Thanks for all the info too bad I didn't read it earlier.

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Constantine79
Crocker, US
Jul 28, 2009 3:08 pm EDT

I am having problems getting a P for my participation grade. I was told I had more than enough hours of participation, that I just needed to be patient. Then a week went by and no answer to my e-mail. I called the school and was informed that the woman in charge of my program had decided that I needed to slow down. It may be 3 more weeks before I got my Participation grade. I informed her that the school is "self paced" what right did they have to do that? She tells me that the lady in charge changes things at her whim. I have got nothing but abusive e-mails, and read some abusive posts from faculty directed at the students. Another student had the same complaint that I did about participation grades and was told not worry, if her time lapsed before it was posted she could add six months to her semester for $75. I really think the school should be reported!

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BellaReigne
, US
Jul 20, 2009 5:14 pm EDT

Omg! I thought it was just me they are so rude!I glad im not the only one who feels this way

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allie06
Perryville, US
Jul 11, 2009 8:55 pm EDT

I was enrolled with Penn Foster and every person ive talked to has been extremly rude. Its like they are so nice when you start out so they lure you in then once your taking classes they turn out to be a$$es about everything. I was 2 months behind in my payments (ok it was $39 a month) so a totalt of $78 and they turned it into their credit agency they go through, which is a joke, I called to get everything straightened out and even everyone there was rude. I had to payoff the entire balance in 3 months or they threathed to take me to court. I thought it was rediculous. I would deffinatly not reccommend this school to anyone.

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garber-3
John Day, US
Jun 15, 2009 2:52 pm EDT

I am thinking about enrolling in to Penn Foster, for my associates degree. I am a little nervouse considering I have been out of school for 11 years now. My job requires me to have at least an associates for my license. From the comments I have just read I am not sure if this would be the right choice for me, any suggestions?

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lauramonica
jersey city, US
May 14, 2009 12:14 am EDT

I have been enrolled for a few months now at Penn Foster. Everytime I call student services they are extremely nice to me, They never change any schedules or classes, and everything is on your own time, there is no participation grade!I work for the Government full time and I have NEVER had to adjust my schedule with school, and my job is very strict! And all the books I received that were INCLUDED, I looked up on Amazon.com and they were a couple of hundred bucks. It is an ONLINE COLLEGE, what do you expect? Someone to hold your hand through it all?

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8:32 am EDT
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The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Penn Foster they're terrible

I enrolled in Penn Foster in June of 2008 in their (what I thought was the Certificate Program) Medical Assisting program. I had to e-mail them and ask for my enrollment agreement and when I received it, it stated that I was in the Associates Degree program which ends up being approx $3, 000 more dollars. I e-mailed them and said there must be a mistake and all that they could tell me was that I would have to cancel this program (which will cost $335.00) and reenroll in the Certificate program.

Then I asked about transferring like it state in the handbook for 50.00 and they said that was for students who paid their tuition in full first. I tried to advise them that my husband was on dialysis awaiting a kidney transplant and they didn't care. So I guess I am stuck paying $3700.00 which will take me years on our income. So I guess I won't get my degree until then.

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DH84
, US
Mar 28, 2011 5:49 am EDT

I am enrolled in this program. When I started I made sure to pay my tuition in full. I had the option to receive all my study materials at once, which I did. Long story short you DO receive text books so for those complaining you obviously have not reached the point in the program where the text books are required! This is a great program and I am a little over halfway done.

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heather
Phoenix , US
Mar 09, 2009 3:17 pm EDT

I am a current student of Penn Foster and its been nothign but problems. My class is extremely disorganized. They change the class schedule over and over and no notice is given. I have to adjust my real job schedule to accommodate. The teacher tells people over and over she has too many students and is tired of all the emails. They are rude to people and make you feel stupid for "bothering" them.

They have a participation requirement that is completely unclear. They make you spend time reading about teenage girls face book pages in order to make a participation grade.

The school is a Joke and judging by the quality of the other student this degree would carry no weight.

To bad they don't allow you to cancel as I will be out $1000 for almost no education. Their techniques were outdated and the books were flimsy booklets that looked photocopied. I know other people dont get these bu tin my course we do.

Steer clear folks, if your unhappy your screwed they charge a hefty cancellation fee.

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student
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Sep 11, 2008 10:42 am EDT

On the positive side, it should still only cost $29/month interest free and you are more likely to get a better paying job with an AA than a certificate.

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8:03 pm EDT

Penn Foster wrongful billing

I have just enrolled in penn fosters school and i did not recieve my materials for my study. I called them and told them what happened and they told me that they would reship it. Well weeks go buy and of course they send me a bill. I told my self i would not pay for something i did not recieve . Now they are sending me letters that i owe this and that and treating my credit. I do not think that is right why should i pay for something i did not recieve?

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hoss1
Middlebury, US
Jun 25, 2011 10:33 am EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I attended penn foster over 9 years ago and cancelled my enrollment and sent their stuff back to them and they are still on my back about it.
The statute of limitation ran out on the credit reporting act 2 years ago and it should have been removed from my credit report but, these scam artists at penn foster somehow are now claiming that i enrolled this year when ive had nothing to do with them since i cancelled.
The fact of the matter they are out to ruin peoples credit even if they pay what is in the writing.
I have all the proof and will be in contact with my lawyer and the proper government agencies about this and with any luck a class action will follow.
I would report them through the BBB but, From what i read the BBB and Penn Foster are in the same bed so to speak and will just close the case instead of investigating the issue.

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pistol
, US
Apr 07, 2009 9:13 pm EDT

I am also a student at Penn Foster and I have been fighting with these people for 3 months. They are very disorganized...their materials do not correlate with the exams. My shipments are always late. It is taking them longer an longer to grade my exams. When I do complain they will not respond or when they do the response has nothing to do with the question I ask. They mark answers wrong and will not change them even when you prove you are right. The instructors have a bad attitude and they defend each other. I have an English tutor with a masters degree and they say she does not know what she is talking about. I paid my fee in full and I can't wait to get this class complete. This is the worst experience I have ever had taking a class.

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heather
Phoenix , US
Mar 09, 2009 3:20 pm EDT

I am a current student of Penn Foster. My class is extremely disorganized. They change the class schedule over and over and no notice is given. I have to adjust my real job schedule to accommodate. The teacher tells people over and over she has too many students and is tired of all the emails. They are rude to people and make you feel stupid for "bothering" them.

They have a participation requirement that is completely unclear. They make you spend time reading about teenage girls face book pages in order to make a participation grade.

The school is a Joke and judging by the quality of the other student this degree would carry no weight.

To bad they don't allow you to cancel as I will be out $1000 for almost no education. Their techniques were outdated and the books were flimsy booklets with no meat to them.

Steer clear folks, if your unhappy your screwed they charge a hefty cancellation fee.

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Judy
,
Aug 19, 2008 11:14 am EDT

I had to wade through multiple pages searching for an honest opinion on Penn Foster. Seems all the opinion pages have been messed with in that you can't access them. Every page had something to do with Penn Foster posted by Penn Foster, which leads me to believe that Penn Foster is attempting to cover something up. Contact your Attorney General's Office and file a complaint. I would do a spell check before sending out any further correspondence.

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12:00 am EST

Penn Foster Payments of tuition!

I made a payment online with the card u.s. bank gave me it contained my routing and savings account number. I made a payment on 01/27/2008. In February I reviewed my savings account and the money was never taken out. The payment was posted on 01/28/2008 the email sent to me stated my payment was posted so I reviewed the card number on my savings account and my bank statement and it did not match. I than called Portland oregon U.S. bank center and they stated they sold that number to someone. this was on a Saturday 02/02/2008 I learned of this. I than dropped in person to U.S. bank Sunday and showed them the card they gave me and the bank statement and asked them what do I have to do to correct this I also took 60.00 out of the savings account. They said the account number was sold meaning my information including my wife who is a foreign citizen was sold.

They told me there is nothing they can do so I got 2 money orders for 29.00 payment tuition and sent them a letter asking Penn Foster how come you posted payments when no money was taken out? In my exp. with other dishonest companies they like to sell your account # taking money and keeping you in debt collections two for the price of one. By the way my next payment is not due till 02/10/2009. I paid 1 year in advance quiet a little scam acting like you are not getting paid and turn it over to debt collectors at the same time receiving payments!

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Theresa Krause
Crystal lake, US
Dec 03, 2022 5:40 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I paid my tuition in full and now for some reason you Penn Foster wants me to pay for it all over again in order for me to be able to finish my courses. I feel this is totally unfair as I have paid you guys my debt and never recieved my diploma as I was unable to complete my classes.

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Juanviamonte
, US
Jan 11, 2020 9:47 pm EST

I dont understand how I own so much money if I dont even have money I try too cancel my account but it wouldn't let my log in I think that's pretty ridiculous

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scamedagainbyarcho
, US
Nov 30, 2019 9:37 am EST

I tried to cancel my courses when I found out that it wasn't really an accredited school. https://www.consumeraffairs.com/education/penn-foster-high-school.html

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MeganBitTheBigOneTryingToGetHerMoneyBack
, US
Oct 26, 2019 11:52 pm EDT

I cancelled over 2 weeks ago. I was told I was going to have the money in 5-7 days. Um, it's been 2 weeks! I'm out of freaking work and need my money. I call and get told my bank has it. Bank doesn't have it. Ready to get my lawyer involved in this. I WANT MY MONEY BACK NOW. IT'S MINE NOT YOURS. IT'S MONEY I OWE MY MOTHER SO WE CAN KEEP LIVING.

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Diamond Alexander
, US
Oct 22, 2019 8:55 pm EDT

How do I cancel my online account and courses? I've emailed and contacted every number but I still can't cancel my account

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jennifer broughman
, US
Jul 13, 2019 8:15 am EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

everytime i try to login it says file not found

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Sarrah Pitts
Stockton, US
Nov 01, 2018 5:44 am EDT

I have decided to go to another school so please cancel my enrollment and refund my $39.99 please and thank you.
I do not own a computer I thought I could do outline but it's online so please cancel my enrollment and refund my $39.99 please my student number is [protected]

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mary ogletree
, US
Aug 20, 2018 6:48 pm EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

student ID [protected] mary ogletree I want to drop the program because I cant get into the students portal it want let me do any assignment so I just want to drop out completely I have wasted a lot of time trying to do the work and I cant get to it thank u mary ogletree email mogletree09@gmail.com

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Anastacio Cabrales
Walnut, US
Feb 13, 2014 12:56 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

On 12/13/2013 I called PennFoster to cancel my Bookkeeping course which I never started since I was out of the country. After paying a $50 downpayment and 5 monthly installments of $45 each, I called them and confirmed with an email my desire to discontinue the course. They said I was entitled to a refund of $48 which I would get within 4-8 weeks. It's exactly 2 months (9 weeks actually) today and I still haven't received my refund.

I called them several times and I would be on hold for 10-15 minutes. The lousiest customer service I've ever known! I called them again today and the lady said the check has not been mailed yet and when asked why, she said she doesn't know. That's all she could tell me - she doesn't know.9694e

Let this be a warning to current and future enrollees in this school - better be careful when dealing with Pennfoster - they're out to get your money.

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school user
, US
Feb 06, 2016 3:52 pm EST

How long after you pay the debt collection agency does the classes start back i payed and they still haven't started yet?

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Penn Foster

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Is Penn Foster a legitimate educational institution?

Penn Foster is a legitimate educational institution offering accredited online programs in high school, career training, and college education.

Are Penn Foster's programs accredited?

Yes, Penn Foster's programs are accredited by various organizations, including the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools.

What types of programs does Penn Foster offer?

Penn Foster offers a range of programs, including high school diplomas, career diplomas, certificate programs, and associate and bachelor's degree programs.

How do employers view Penn Foster degrees and diplomas?

Some employers view Penn Foster degrees and diplomas positively, recognizing their accreditation and the skills students gain from the programs. However, the perception of online degrees may vary among employers.

Is Penn Foster's tuition affordable compared to other institutions?

Penn Foster offers affordable tuition rates, with a pay-as-you-go model and various payment plans, making it more accessible for many students.

How is the quality of Penn Foster's course content and materials?

Penn Foster's course content and materials are designed to be comprehensive and up-to-date, but the quality may vary depending on the program.

Do Penn Foster graduates find success in their careers?

Many Penn Foster graduates find success in their careers after completing their programs, but individual success depends on factors such as the job market and the graduate's efforts in networking and job searching.

Is Penn Foster a good fit for students who need a flexible learning schedule?

Yes, Penn Foster's online, self-paced programs are well-suited for students who need a flexible learning schedule, allowing them to balance work, family, and other responsibilities.

What kind of support does Penn Foster provide to its students?

Penn Foster offers support to its students through resources like academic advising, tutoring, webinars, and access to an online student community.

Can I transfer Penn Foster credits to other educational institutions?

Penn Foster credits may be transferable to other educational institutions, but it depends on the specific institution and their transfer policies.

How long do Penn Foster programs typically take to complete?

The duration of Penn Foster programs varies depending on the program and the student's pace. Some programs can be completed in a few months, while others may take several years.

Is Penn Foster's platform user-friendly and easy to navigate?

Penn Foster's online platform is designed to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, allowing students to access course materials, submit assignments, and communicate with instructors.

How do Penn Foster students interact with their instructors?

Penn Foster students can interact with their instructors through email, phone calls, or online messaging within the course platform.

Are there any financial aid options available for Penn Foster students?

Penn Foster does not offer federal financial aid, but they provide flexible payment plans and discounts to help make their programs more affordable.

Can I enroll in a Penn Foster program if I live outside of the United States?

Yes, Penn Foster accepts international students, but it's important to verify if the program and accreditation are recognized in your home country.

What is Penn Foster's refund policy?

Penn Foster has a refund policy that allows students to cancel their enrollment within a specified period and receive a refund based on the terms outlined in their enrollment agreement.

How do I contact Penn Foster's customer service?

Penn Foster's customer service can be contacted through various channels, including phone, email, and their online help center.

Is Penn Foster a for-profit or non-profit institution?

Penn Foster is a for-profit educational institution.

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Contact Penn Foster customer service

Phone numbers

+1 (800) 471-3232 +1 (888) 427-1000 More phone numbers

Website

www.pennfoster.edu

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